Our Behavior Specialists develop an individualized plan of treatment, based upon the psychological evaluation. Plans specify observable, measurable objectives, along with procedures and behavior modification techniques. We also provide instruction and support designed to increase positive behaviors. We work with both the child and the family to teach skills and shape behavior.

A unique feature of BHRS services provided by Paula Teacher & Associates, Inc. is that we do our best to schedule all prescribed hours during days and times most convenient for the family and during times when the behaviors are most prevalent. We also match staff based upon the desires of the family and the skill level and strengths of the staff.

Our trained staff offer instruction and assistance in a professional manner and utilize only positive, age-appropriate approaches. We work with the individual to enhance and increase their level of independence. We teach skills based upon what the individual would like to learn in order for them to be most productive and independent in their daily lives. Home and Community services may be utilized to design an individualized day program designed to teach functional real life skills necessary to become integrated into the community and work force.

Assistance is provided during times most convenient to the individual. Our staff can provide transportation to the individual while participating in community based activities. We promote community participation and teach the individual to identify and utilize free resources within their communities and neighborhoods. We assign staff based upon the goals, interests and skills of the individual in need of support.

Our behavioral support plans are written with measurable objectives so that progress can be monitored. When appropriate, family members, residential staff or day program staff can be trained in the implementation of the behavior support plan. Consistency across all environments can lead to better results. Progress is monitored and programs are revised or adapted as necessary to assist the individual in achieving their goal.

The services are designed based upon the individual's current knowledge level and identified needs. Most frequently, there is a specific need or behavior that requires education and training in what is acceptable and appropriate for given circumstances and environments.

Job Finding and Supported Employment services are offered to individuals who are ready to enter the competitive work force. Our skilled team of vocational specialists works with the individual in identifying preferred types of work, strengths, and abilities. Job searches are conducted with the individual until the right job has been secured. Our job coaches provide on the job training and support until the individual is performing all aspects of the job independently and in accord with the employer?s standards.

Our Greensburg team of job development specialists has contacts with many businesses in the area and has developed a sound reputation for making good employee-employer matches.

For those wishing to give back to the community while acquiring work skills, transitional work services and volunteer opportunities are also available in a variety of settings.

The Psychiatric Rehabilitation program is founded on the principles of consumer choice and the active involvement of the participant. The program is guided by the philosophy that individuals with mental illness need opportunities to identify and choose for themselves their desired roles in the community with regard to living, learning, working and/or social environments. The program provides both formal and informal structures through which participants can influence and shape program development. Participants are guided through a structured decision making process through which they can influence and shape program development. They accomplish this though identifying goals, planning strategies and acquiring skills to reach and maintain desired goals, and developing necessary supports to maintain goals. Program participants must have a role recovery goal in one of the following domains: living, working, learning, or social.

The Mobile Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program supports the rehabilitation goals of Westmoreland county residents who are:

• 18 years of age or older;
• with functional disabilities resulting from mental illness;
• who choose to enroll in a community-based, mobile service;
• with a diagnosis of serious mental illness, including the diagnoses of schizophrenia, major mood disorder, psychotic disorder NOS, schizoaffective disorder, or borderline personality disorder;
• someone with a diagnosis outside of these categories must be admitted via VBH's exception process.

The advocates offer services ranging from monthly monitoring to intensive weekly support. The majority of services are offered in the form of small group outings to community and recreational sites, in addition to small group projects such as gardening, cooking, crafts, and public awareness events. Program participants are encouraged to discuss, plan, and determine activities which will enhance personal interests, community involvement, social skills, and peer relationships. Advocates support consumers in gathering information and resources necessary to making informed choices regarding treatment, goal-planning, and self-fulfillment.

Our therapists also specialize in iPod, iPhones and iPad applications that can enhance communication skills for consumers. Specific applications can be programmed and personalized using photos, specific names, phrases or activities designed specifically for them. We can also provide training to school districts, parents, residential staff, day program staff or anyone else interested in learning how to take full advantage of these applications.

• autism spectrum disorders
• behavioral programming
• classroom behavior management
• communication devices and adaptive equipment
• iPod, iPhones and iPad programming
• Rare Disorders
• Technical assistance

We can design a training program to meet your needs. Don't see it on the list, just ask.

For more information or questions about any of our services, you may email us ptainc@paulateacher.com or call us at (412) 744-4073

• Behavioral Health Rehabilitation funded through Community Care Behavioral Health and Value Behavioral Health Office of Intellectual Disabilities (contracts currently with Allegheny, Westmoreland, Bedford/Somerset and Fayette Counties)
• The Office of Long Term Living (OBRA, CommCare and Independence Waivers)
• Bureau of Autism Services (Adult Autism Waiver)
• Private Insurances (Highmark BC/BS)
• Numerous School Districts
• Westmoreland County Program Funded Services for adults with Mental Health issues
• Private Pay